The author, Senator Scott Dibble (DFL-Minneapolis), says the legislation, which essentially requires schools to adopt policies to prevent bullying, has been a long time coming.

Implementing this policy in schools across the state would cost taxpayers $20 million a year.

Those in opposition say the measure doesn't provide the right tools, instead just giving a mandate.

The committee heard testimony from one parent whose son was bullied in school, saying the child's emotional pain became unbearable.

"On October 22nd 2006, he brought a gun and ended his life behind our pool barn," said Ann Gettis, mother of Jeremiah, to the committee as she broke down in tears.

"Having been bullied myself as a kid, I am definitely passionate about kids treating each other with dignity and respect, but this bill does not have all the answers," said Angela Shaughnessy, a parent.

Provisions in the bill include training on policy to staff and volunteers, designating staff in each building to receive formal complaints about bullying and offering remedial responses to incidents.